SOP: Governor Linkage & Distributor

Critical SOP: Governor Linkage & Distributor

Mechanical Synchronization & Transmission

Context: Hydraulic piston (Servomotor) pushes the Regulating Ring, which rotates all 20 wicket gates simultaneously to control water flow.

Risk: If linkage pins have "play" (wear), gates will flutter.
Equation: 1mm pin wear = ~5% loss in gate synchronization. This leads to efficiency loss and hunting.

SOP 1: Linkage Logic & Inspection

The system is a chain. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link (pin).

Servomotor → Regulating Ring → Links (20x) → Wicket Gate Shaft.

Static Check: With unit crossed out and pressure released, grab each link arm by hand.
Push/Pull: Try to shake the arm.
Result:
- Pass: Zero tangible movement. Solid.
- Fail: "Clicking" sound or visible movement. Replace bushing immediately.

SOP 2: Lubrication Audit

Friction causes governor hunting (unstable power). Grease is the stabilizer.

Audit: Check central pump builds pressure (typically 150-200 bar).
Visual Confirmation: Inspect all 20 gate shafts. You should see a fresh ring of grease purging from seals.
Blockage: If one bearing is dry while others purge, distributor block is clogged. Clean manually.

SOP 3: Friction "Swing Test"

This test confirms the entire mechanism "floats" freely.

Safety: Unit stopped. MIV Closed. Mechanical Safety Pin REMOVED (Control risk!).
Detach: Disconnect servomotor piston from regulating ring.
Manual Swing: Two technicians should be able to push the regulating ring by hand from 0% to 100% opening.
Criteria: Movement must be smooth. No "binding", "hard spots", or "jumping".

Diagnosis: If ring binds at specific spot, a wicket gate is bent or a stone is jammed in housing.

Checklist